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4h ago

Anze Kopitar Says 2025–26 Will Be His Final NHL Season

He announced the decision at training camp to prevent a season-long distraction.

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May 1, 2025; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Los Angeles Kings forward Anze Kopitar (11) and Edmonton Oilers defensemen Darnell Nurse (25) battle along the boards for a loose puck during the second period in game six of the first round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Rogers Place. Mandatory Credit: Perry Nelson-Imagn Images/File Photo

Overview

  • The 38-year-old Kings captain confirmed his retirement plans at a news conference with his wife and children, saying, "My mind is made up."
  • This will be his 20th NHL season, all with Los Angeles, and the final year of his two-year, $14 million contract signed in 2023.
  • Kopitar is a two-time Stanley Cup champion and winner of two Selke and three Lady Byng trophies, and he has been the Kings' captain since 2016.
  • He leads the franchise in games played (1,454) and assists (838) and enters the season 29 points shy of Marcel Dionne's club record for points (1,307).
  • He cited a desire to prioritize family, including plans to move back to Slovenia, as the Kings begin his farewell season Oct. 7 against the Avalanche.